From 06 on they deleted the flaps that covered the gap between the third row & second row, when the seats were folded. This won't worry you as long as the second row head rests are off when folded flat. I really rate the territory as a tow car. It easily tows my 210. We launch at a really steep ramp & it pulls out with ease.

I think it is the TX series (2004), later models had a redesigned ball joint where the forces in the joint push the joint together instead of trying to pull it apart.We have had our SX TX 2wd since 2005 (2004 model) and tow a 2000kg load with ease using around 16-17 litres per 100km at 100km/h, it is a five seater, you can fit a double mattress in the back.It is the four speed model.We have had our ball joints replaced under warranty.The front disc rotors are , we replaced ours with slotted DBA and Bendix ultimate pads after they warped the second time, a huge improvement in braking power.I sprayed internally all the doors and tail gate with fish oil just after we bought it.They are a good car, plenty of room, drive like a station wagon.Watch out for the centre diff bush that are prone to failing, we went the nothalene bush route which increases noise from the drive line at certain speeds.Have just bought a 05 4wd Hilux and was amazed how easy it was to retrieve the boat from the water, basically idled out compared with the Territory struggling with traction.

Had my 06 AWD front ball joints done twice original they would replace any ball joint that showed wear as long as the car was under 150K. They released a full recall earlier this year with a revised ball joint.

Speak to the Service Manager in the Workshop,and get them to check if your car needs to go in for the R1101 ball joint recalland get them to check on the [b]Goasis site [b] if your VIN is listed as needing the recall replacement LCA's (lower control arms)these are fitted free of charge, regardless of KM's travelled.

Do any of you lads use the load distribution hitch for towing bigger boats with the territory? I have a 210 and am wondering if this would be a must??i usually tow it with a landcruiser ute, but am looking at a territory for the fiance.

fluffy wrote:Thanks Ken, do you think insurance would knock you back if there was no load dist. Hitch in an accident?

Who knows - I don't plan on having an accident..... Given that these things can tow 1600Kg with 160Kg towball weight on a standard towpack, I feel that I can argue a case as my trailer has less than 100Kg of towball weight.There is nothing to distribute.....

partner and i bought a new territory last yr and ford told us that unless you have the weight distrubution system hooked up that its not to tow over 1600kg but with it on it can tow 2700kg. they told us without it and a big boat on the back insurance wont look at us